Comparison of electronic apex locator and simultaneous working length detection methods with radiological method in terms of postoperative pain

Precise knowledge of the apical construction, which determines the end of the area for canal preparation and filling, is essential for the success of root canal treatment and the management of postoperative pain. For this purpose, devices based on various methods that determine the working length (WL) are used. However, it is still controversial which method provides the most accurate measurements. To investigate the compatibility of the electronic apex locator (EWL) and simultaneous working length determination (SWL) methods in single-root teeth in comparison with the radiographic working length determination (RWL) method and to determine which one produced more effective results in terms of postoperative pain. One hundred patients scheduled for root canal treatment (RCT) were randomly assigned to one of the three groups according to the working length measurement method (EWL, SWL or RWL). After WL determination with assigned method, root canals were prepared and then obturated. Age, gender, simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S), oral and dental examinations and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) results of all participants were recorded. The incidence and intensity of postoperative pain were rated on a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) by patients 6, 12, 24, 48 h and 7 days after RCT. The number of analgesic tablets (400 mg Ibuprofen) taken by patients was also recorded. Data were analyzed using the chi-square, One- way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Bland-Altman and Passing-Bablock regression analysis were used as method comparison techniques. It was determined that the number of patients receiving analgesia and the total number of analgesia doses were higher in EWL and RWL groups compared to SWL group (p